The design for a $1.8 million federally-funded project to improve safety at the Bruce Highway and Matilda Service Station is in its final stages.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the upgrade project would improve visibility for vehicles leaving the Matilda Service Station and turning right to travel south on the Bruce Highway.

“The upgrade project includes constructing a new dedicated off-ramp for northbound traffic to safely exit the highway, improving the visibility for vehicles leaving the service station,” Mr Albanese said.

“Before major works can begin in early next year, electrical and lighting work will need to be completed.

“Electricians will be onsite from Sunday night (28 November 2010) with the work expected to take about one week to complete, weather permitting.”

“Completing the electrical and lighting upgrades now will allow work to commence on the road widening once the contract has been awarded.”

The project is being funded from the Bruce Highway Safety Package which in itself is just one part of the $2.6 billion investment the Gillard Labor Government is making in this important road – more than twice what our predecessors spent over a similar period of time.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said planning had focused on ensuring the safety of motorists, while minimising disruptions to road users.

“During the electrical and lighting works, every effort will be made to ensure traffic delays are kept to a minimum,” Mr Wallace said.

“Traffic control will be in place, so I ask motorists for their patience and cooperation during the upgrade, for their safety and the safety of roadworkers,” he said.